more justifiable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "more justifiable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing the justification of two or more actions, decisions, or beliefs, indicating that one is more defensible than the other. Example: "In light of the new evidence, her decision to withdraw from the project seems more justifiable than before."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The book buyer's suspicions are more justifiable.

The New York Times - Books

But it was also something bigger and more justifiable.

The New Yorker

The sort of humiliating thing which perhaps makes terrorism more likely, if no more justifiable.

The Guardian

With that possibility looming larger, however, a sale would be more justifiable.

The New York Times

Although more justifiable, the operation in Afghanistan didn't "scratch the itch," and Bush the Younger wanted to do something bolder.

The New York Times

The rewashable microfiber dust cloth that comes in a hospital-scrub green — they're green, see? — is more justifiable.

The New York Times

Assange's mission to publish everything from diplomatic gossip to unflattering verdicts on foreign governments is no more justifiable, in moral terms, than blanket tabloid intrusion into private life.

Independent

Even Mr. Purcell's pay, which Mr. Crystal had characterized as excessive in past years, seems more justifiable now, Mr. Crystal said.

The New York Times

Another protester, who declined to be named, conceded that there were "more justifiable targets" than a small independent business, but played down the scale of the attack.

The Guardian

The failure to prosecute white-collar executives might be more justifiable if there were any indication that fines and deferred-prosecution agreements deterred corporate wrongdoing.

The New Yorker

The price tag was still steep, starting at £5,200 for a family of four, but more justifiable: two holidays for the price of one.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "more justifiable" when comparing two or more options or actions to indicate which one has stronger or more valid reasons supporting it. For instance, 'Given the circumstances, relocating the office seems "more justifiable" than downsizing the team'.

Common error

Avoid using "more justifiable" in scenarios where the comparison lacks a reasonable basis. For instance, saying 'Eating pizza is "more justifiable" than breathing' makes no sense because these actions are incomparable in terms of justification. Always ensure the items being compared fall within the same logical or ethical framework.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "more justifiable" functions as a comparative adjective, used to indicate that one action, decision, or belief is easier to defend or rationalize than another. Ludwig AI confirms that it's grammatically correct and widely used. Examples show its role in comparing the validity of different choices.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

42%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "more justifiable" is a comparative adjective phrase used to argue that one option is easier to defend or rationalize than another. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. It's commonly found in news, scientific, and formal business contexts, serving to persuade or rationalize a particular stance. Alternatives include "more defensible", "more warranted", and "more legitimate". When using this phrase, ensure you are comparing options within a reasonable framework and consider the appropriate level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more defensible

Focuses on the capability to be defended or supported against criticism.

more warranted

Highlights that something is officially approved or deserved, making it suitable or necessary.

more legitimate

Emphasizes adherence to laws or rules, providing a basis in legality or recognized standards.

more reasonable

Implies a balanced approach and adherence to logic or common sense.

more valid

Indicates accuracy and truthfulness, suggesting a strong foundation in facts or evidence.

more supportable

Highlights the existence of sufficient evidence or reasons to provide help or approval.

more tenable

Focuses on maintaining a position or argument, stressing viability under scrutiny or attack.

more rightful

Implies a moral or legal claim to something, emphasizing justice and entitlement.

more genuine

Indicates authenticity and lack of pretense, making the justification seem sincere and truthful.

more fair

Highlights impartiality and equitable treatment, making an action morally more acceptable.

FAQs

How can I use "more justifiable" in a sentence?

Use "more justifiable" to compare the relative justification of two options, implying one is easier to defend or support with reasons. For example, "Investing in renewable energy is becoming "more justifiable" as climate change concerns increase".

What alternatives can I use instead of "more justifiable"?

You can use alternatives like "more defensible", "more warranted", or "more legitimate" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "more justifiable" over "justifiable"?

Use "more justifiable" when directly comparing two or more actions or decisions. If you're not making a direct comparison, "justifiable" alone may suffice. For example, "His actions were "justifiable" given the circumstances" versus "His actions were "more justifiable" than his predecessor's".

What's the difference between "more justifiable" and "more understandable"?

"More understandable" implies something is easier to comprehend or empathize with, while "more justifiable" means something has stronger reasons or is easier to defend. Something can be understandable without being justifiable, and vice versa. The phrase "more understandable" focuses on comprehension, whereas "more justifiable" is about reasoning.